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1 COLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS POST OFFICE BOX 1529 LAKE aty, FLORIDA COLUMBIA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLEX 372 WEST DUVAL STREET LAKE CITY, FLORIDA AGENDA JANUARY 19, :00 P.M. Invocation (Commissioner Jody L. DuPree) Pledge to U.S. Flag Staff Agenda/Deletions Adoption of Agenda Public Comments Bea Coker: (1) Florida Crown Issues Sheryl Walker, Executive Director - Happy House (1) Representing 3 Not-for-Profit Agencies Requesting Temporary Transportation Subsidy Funding - $31,250.00

2 Marlin Feagle, County Attorney (1) baniel Crapps Agency - 48 Acres Adjacent to Target - $150, STAFF MATTERS: HONORABLE SCARLET P. FRISINA, CHAIRPERSON (1) Consent Agenda DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS: Ring Power Contracts Non Exclusive Solid Waste Franchise Agreements *** COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS ADJOURNMENT

3 Befaithful Coker 636 SE Baya Drive Lake City, Florida January 11, 2012 Columbia County Board of County Commissioners PO Box 1529 Lake City, Florida Re: Florida Crown Regional Workforce Board Dear Commissioners: My name is Befaithful Coker; I have been a resident of Lake City, as an adult since June I have unfortunately had some very troubling encounters with Florida Crown Regional Workforce Board, which creates three separate and distinct issues; I humbly seek your attention to address. I bring your attention to an underlying commonality among all communication, appearing as rouge management of upper level management and the Executive Director, and blatant disregard for civil decency displayed by the Executive Director, John Chastain. First, Florida Crown's pursuit of resources to assist Columbia County is detrimental to the citizens and business. On November 23, 2011, I attended a Legislative Committee Board meeting of Florida Crown and desired to address specifically, regarding volunteer opportunities that could be spearheaded by Florida Crown, that would benefit citizens and clients. I specifically discussed opportunities that AmeriCorps, under Volunteer Florida, the volunteer commission appointed by Governor Scott to create Volunteer opportunities in Florida. I provided an RFP obtained from the website of AmeriCorps (Exhibit A) and I shared my personal experience to demonstrate how effective community service programs/volunteer opportunities could be, to clients seeking to learn new skills, maintain existing skills, transition into new industries without cost to potential employers, and how especially beneficial these service would be to welfare transition clients. The grant funding provided by AmeriCorp could provide tuition reimbursement, or stipends to clients up to $13,000, opposed to $2,000 - $3,000 in welfare annually. For almost an hour, I sat listening to John Chastain speak ill of Governor Scott and the Workforce Accountability Act, his staff and board members had no concern for the presence of public citizens while their remarks were both insulting and demeaning. I interjected on two occasions and was told by Mr. Chastain to more or less be quiet and he would meet with me afterwards. Mr. Chastain further went into explaining that the Columbia County Board of County Commissioners had it out for Florida Crown as well, and desired to divert funding to Economic Redevelopment and remove the voice so desperately needed by the under privilege citizens served by Florida Crown. After that meeting Mr. Chastain, asked some of his department heads to meet with me in his office. The group consisting of Phyllis Marty, Dana Morgan, Doris Hall, Anna Schneider,

4 Alonzo Fillmore, and John Chastain, spent the better part of 20 minutes attempting to ridicule my thoughts about the benefits of volunteering, to the point that it was clear no meeting of the minds would not occur in that environment. I later communicated my concerns to Mr. Chastain. I was subjected to his and staffs discussion with members of the public about the services I received from Florida Crown to include with inquiry into my background, with a disregard to my right to privacy. Both Florida Statutes (1)(e), and Florida Crown Workforce Board, Inc. Welfare Transition Program (WTP) Policy No. OPS , authorize Regional Workforce Boards to create community service programs. (Exhibit B) The request I am making with regard to the resources is a simple one, "whether Columbia County citizens and business would benefit from Florida Crown devoting some resources to the identification and development of a stronger community service program". The Board of County Commissioners can make a priority helping Florida Crown in that regard, the Board of County Commissioners, has demonstrated a very effective identification and acquisition process for grants. The ArneriCorps grant was an unnecessarily missed opportunity. As consortium board members can the BCC, help Florida Crown increase effectiveness with the provision of its services. Second and the more personal issue for me is the blatant disregard for the civil liberties of citizens, merely because they are recipients of Florida Crown services. I am attaching my formal complaint filed with Governor Scott with regard to the hearing on January 5, 2012 held at Florida Crown (Exhibit C). I arrived at the hearing to find approximately 17 attendees, 3 of which were regular citizens. The issues posed to the Columbia County Board of County Commissioners with regard to my second concern are: Whether or not a client of Florida Crown, welfare recipient or not forgoes their right to the prohibition of a tape recording device, wherein such use is unknown to the client at the leisure of Florida Crown. Phyllis Marty secretly taped my meeting at Florida Crown on December 2, Whether hearings held by Florida Crown for welfare recipients are subject to the Florida State Sunshine Act, Open Government and subject to being open to the public to discuss the client's welfare eligibility and protected medical information. Whether or not the Board of County Commissioners will take an active role in ensuring that Columbia County citizens regardless of the type of service received from Florida Crown, not be subjected to abuse and misuse of power from Florida Crown's board members or staff. To date, I still have not received the return of the tape recording device used, and the originals and copies of such data, requested via public records search to Florida Crown on December 5, Third, is regarding the Workforce Accountability Act. I attended Florida Crown's regular Board meeting on December 6, Again, the agenda was mostly devoted to combating the Workforce Accountability Act. While I know, it has been said that the non-compliance concerns are centered on the Orlando office but that is not entirely the truth. The audit

5 revealed that 11 of 24 Regional Workforce Boards were in non-compliance. (Exhibit D - Page, Governors Reform Press Release, Under the Section: "Restoring Accountability and Credibility to Florida's Workforce Boards Florida's workforce development system provides employment-related services to job seekers and employers through 24 locally controlled Regional Workforce Boards that receive a portion of the federal funds awarded to the state for employment-related services. But since 2003, federal and state auditors have found that 11 of the 24 Regional Workforce Boards have made $9,273,714 in questionable or disallowable expenditures." The 2010 AWI report for the Regional Workforce Boards ranked Florida Crown as number 24 out of 24 RWB. Whether, the findings are small or large, they are enough for assessment, not to pretend that there were no mishaps. The responsible approach would be to move toward preventative practices for adequate checks and balances. I am pleased that the Governor proposed the Workforce Accountability Act. 1 for one believe it to be the role of government to hold accountability to the enormous amount of agencies created, and RWBs should receive no exemption from that standard. John Chastain uses Florida Crown funds in Gilchrist County for youth programs ran out of his church, while there are many youth in Columbia County that could equally benefit from similar programs. Columbia County should not ride as second-class citizens to reaping needed benefits in our community. We need team players in positions of this magnitude, not dictators, tyrants, and people who believe the only options are the ones created in their limited foresight. While I am pleased that the commissioners declined written opposition to the Act, and pleased in a committnent by Commissioner Williams for the two organizations to work together, as a citizen I humbly request the BCC to prioritize working with the Governor's office so that we in Columbia County can receive the needed benefits for additional resources that would benefit our community. I appreciate your time, and look forward to your feedback. Kind jrso,al regards, Befaith 1 Coker

6 A- VOINITURISNI COMIIIIIM SEIVK Previous Page I Home Jump On Board with Service - JOBS Request for Proposal (RFP) Release Date: November 21, 2011 PROPOSALS DUE: Tuesday, December 13, :00 PM EST Click here to download Reauest For Proposal Click here to download Application Forms Volunteering as a pathway to employment is a strategy that has worked for many individuals. In most cases the volunteer service was initiated by the individual and was not part of a systematic strategic effort. In a recent survey conducted by Volunteer Florida, more than 75% of respondents indicated that in the past year they were aware of a volunteer who had secured a part-time or full-time job through a connection they made while volunteering. Recognizing the growing importance of job seekers as volunteers, the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA) started an initiative in 2010 to develop tools and resources to assist organizations in recruiting and supporting job seekers as volunteers. The aim was to optimize the value that job seekers gain from volunteering and to make it easy for organizations to involve job seekers as volunteers. The result was a Tool Kit for Recruiting and Supporting Job-Seeking Volunteers, published in May The complete toolkit is located at The lessons learned and resources provided in this tool kit may help applicants implement the JOBS pilot program. The goal of Volunteer Florida's Jump On Board with Service (JOBS) is to use the survey's anecdotal information and other employment strategies to implement a pilot program to match willing unemployed individuals, with an emphasis on veterans and military families, with volunteer opportunities to gain valuable job-specific skills and networking while meeting critical needs in Florida. This will help participants become more attractive to potential employers while strategically addressing needs and supporting Florida's nonprofits, government organizations and private businesses. JOBS will fund up to two (2) pilot programs representing economically and geographically diverse communities; affording unemployed individuals, particularly veterans and military families, the necessary work related skills needed to secure and maintain employment. The ideal applicant will demonstrate that their proposal is a community-based effort to develop a skilled workforce utilizing volunteering as a pathway to employment. Letters of support from partnering organizations are required and shall include the value and services being provided by the partner organization. Strategies to implement JOBS may include: Career coaches and volunteer managers for volunteer placement Training focused events, such as career academies, service boot camps, workshops, volunteer fairs, or volunteer management certification trainings Internships (academic based for students) (paid and unpaid) Externships (skill-based for nontraditional students and adults) Job-skills assessment for volunteer matching and placement

7 Outreach to the prospective employer community (nonprofits, government and private) Connection to job-skill training providers ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS Regional Workforce Boards in Florida's Regions 1-8 are eligible to apply. THE GRANT PERIOD The grant period will begin upon execution of the JOBS grant contract, anticipated to be mid-january 2012 and terminating on November 15, Funding Amounts & Match Requirements Available funding is a maximum of $200,000 with a required 1:1.25 (non-federal) match. Grantees must provide $1.25 of in-kind and/or cash match for each $1 of grant funds requested. Match can include expenses paid by the Grantee or a documented partner organization. Programs funded under this RFP will be funded a minimum of $100,000 up to the maximum of $200,000. Matching funds may be cash or in-kind and may NOT be from Federal sources. Volunteer service hours are NOT eligible as match. Total maximum program budget including match is up to $450,000. All expenses, grant funded and match funded, shall support the purposes of JOBS and comply with all applicable Federal OMB Circulars, Florida Statutes and applicable regulations. Applicants should be open to consider scaling down their proposal in the event all funding is not available. Grants are made on a cost-reimbursement basis. Grantees will be required to provide proper documentation of expenditures for each month. Volunteer Florida reserves the right to allocate funds based on Reviewers' recommendations and availability of funds. Funding Availability and Source Volunteer Florida, the Governor's Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service was established in October 1993 to fulfill the National and Community Service Trust Act of The Florida Legislature enacted Volunteer Florida into law in 1994 (Florida Statute 14.29). The mission of the organization is to strengthen communities through volunteer service. In carrying out its mission, Volunteer Florida partners with community and faith-based organizations, non-profits, businesses, government entities, school boards, colleges and universities. Oversight of Volunteer Florida is the responsibility of a board of commissioners composed of a diverse, bipartisan group of citizens actively involved in volunteer service. Commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate to serve three-year terms. Each year Volunteer Florida awards and administers AmeriCorps funding that is received from the Corporation for National & Community Service. Volunteer Florida's JOBS grant is funded with Commission Administrative Funds FY2011, Grant #10CAHFLO02, from the Corporation for National and Community Service. All grant awards are contingent upon funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal government agency that encourages Americans of all ages and backgrounds to engage in community-based service to meet the nation's educational, public safety, environmental and other human needs. In doing so, the Corporation fosters civic responsibility, strengthens the ties that bind us together as a people, and provides educational opportunities for those who make a substantial commitment to service. PROGRAM DELIVERABLES Successful grantees will accomplish the following: Conduct outreach to nonprofits, government organizations and private businesses within the applicant's service area. Conduct outreach to unemployed, particularly veterans and military families, within the applicant's service area. Assess the individual's skills and assets and match the individuals with volunteer and service opportunities within the applicant's service area. Outreach and placement of program participants will include a minimum of 50% with nonprofit organizations. Conduct a program evaluation. Document project results by maintaining photographs, media clippings, etc. Submit monthly financial reports, quarterly progress reports and a final report. Proposal Assistance

8 One (1) Technical Assistance Conference call to assist potential applicants in their preparation of a complete and competitive proposal is scheduled for Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 4:00 PM EST. The conference call in number is (888) and the code is #. Following the Technical Assistance Conference Call, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) listing will be posted at INTENT TO APPLY Volunteer Florida encourages potential applicants to register your intent to apply for funding. Registration is not a prerequisite for submitting a proposal, nor does it obligate the organization to submit a proposal. Please maryregister volunteerflorida.org your intent to apply notification. Successful Grantee Expectations Applicant(s) who is/are successful in being awarded the JOBS Pilot Program may expect to provide the following during the contracting phase: Outreach strategy details (if needed) and required documentation of outreach and other program deliverables Documentation of indirect rates (if applicable) Budget with sufficient detall to confirm that grant funds and match funds will be used exclusively for JOBS and not non-jobs or organizational expenses Other information and/or documentation sufficient to complete the contract process Proposal CRITERIA and instructions Volunteer Florida will review proposals for adherence to JOBS program objectives and federal and state contractual funding requirements. Volunteer Florida may conduct clarifying interviews in person or through conference calls prior to final approval. Proposal submission Proposals will be scored on a 100-point scale. Failure to follow these instructions may disqualify your proposal. Grant proposals should be single-spaced, 12-point font, with 1-inch margins and a maximum of 10 pages total, and contain the following components: Cover Sheet and Executive Summary (100 words maximum) (0 points - 1 page) Provide a 100 word Executive Summary of your proposal. Organizational Capacity (10 points - 1 page) Describe your capacity to implement and manage the proposed program, including applicant's ability to manage the proposed program and fiscal experience. Proposal Narrative (60 points - one to five pages) Use the proposal narrative to explain how the applicant will: meet the objectives listed in the Program Deliverables and demonstrate the ability to accomplish the goal of utilizing volunteering as a pathway to employment for unemployed, particularly veterans and military families; conduct outreach to potential partners; conduct outreach to unemployed, particularly veterans and military families, within the applicant's service area; assess the individual's skills and assets and match the individuals with volunteer and service opportunities within the applicant's service area; resources available include conduct outreach and placement of participants including a minimum of 50% with nonprofit organizations; and conduct a program evaluation including: o a pre- and post-assessment of program participants and the impact this program had on their path to employment including changes in job readiness, personal well-being and employment status. o an assessment of organizational partner participants and the value program participants contributed to the organization's mission though their volunteer service. The proposal narrative will include the following:

9 timeline for JOBS program implementation demonstrate the readiness of nonprofit organizations, within the applicant's service area, to receive and utilize program participants in volunteer and service opportunities identify a goal of the number of unemployed individuals, particularly veterans and military families, who will be reached as a result of the applicant's JOBS outreach efforts identify a goal of the number of unemployed, particularly veterans and military families, who will be placed in volunteer and service opportunities as a result of the applicant's JOBS efforts strategy for program sustainability Required Letters of Support & Commitment (10 points - 2 pages) All proposals are required to include two (2) letters of support and commitment, printed and signed on letterhead, from organizations such as volunteer connector organizations, non-profit organizations, government agencies or the business community who will be active partners with the JOBS pilot program. These letters should include a description of any cash or in-kind match to be provided, such as use of space, expertise, equipment and materials, or training. To receive all points, the ideal proposal will demonstrate collaboration and partnership and will not be a general form letter. Completed Budget Form & Budget Narrative (20 points - 1 page) The form should show how the program grant funds and matching funds will be used. Funds may not be used to provide volunteer stipends or monetary incentives (such as gift cards). The Budget Narrative (half page) should provide a detailed explanation of costs in each line item including budgeted match. Matching funds are required. Grantees must provide $1.25 of in-kind and/or cash match for each $1 of grant funds requested. Grantees will be required to provide documentation of budgeted match with their requests for reimbursement. Submission Deadline Proposals must be submitted electronically, in one pdf file, by 5:00 PM EST, Tuesday, December 13, 2011 to: maryregister@volunteerflorida.orq. Proposals received after December 13, 2011, 5:00 PM EST may not be considered. Contact Information All correspondence, questions and other communications regarding these proposal instructions or the review of proposals should be directed to: Mary Register, Volunteer Services Consultant maryregister@volunteerflorida.oro About Us I AmeriCorps I Con-unissioners I Disability- Outreach I Emergency Management Grants Information I Links I Multimedia I Nevisaxur, I Staff I Volunteer Centers I Volunteer Now I Internet Privacy Policy 201.1, The Gcniernor's Comrni..:;sion on VofunteE:viern and Community Ser`PrCe, Vourtteer r-lor da

10 The 2011 Florida Statutes E\MAVY11 Title XXXI Chapter 445 View Entire Chapter LABOR WORKFORCE SERVICES Work requirements. (1) WORK ACTIVITIES.The Department of Economic Opportunity may develop activities under each of the following categories of work activities. The following categories of work activities, based on federal law and regulations, may be used individually or in combination to satisfy the work requirements for a participant in the temporary cash assistance program: Unsubsidized employment. Subsidized private sector employment. Subsidized public sector employment. On-the-job training. Community service programs. Work experience. Job search and job readiness assistance. Vocational educational training. Job skills training directly related to employment. Education directly related to employment. Satisfactory attendance at a secondary school or in a course of study leading to a graduate equivalency diploma. (I) Providing child care services. (2) WORK ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS.Each individual who is not otherwise exempt from work activity requirements must participate in a work activity for the maximum number of hours allowable under federal taw; however, a participant may not be required to work more than 40 hours per week. The maximum number of hours each month that a family may be required to participate in community service or work experience programs is the number of hours that would result from dividing the family's monthly amount for temporary cash assistance and food assistance by the applicable minimum wage. However, the maximum hours required per week for community service or work experience may not exceed 40 hours. A participant in a work activity may also be required to enroll in and attend a course of instruction designed to increase literacy sidlls to a level necessary for obtaining or retaining employment if the instruction plus the work activfty does not require more than 40 hours per week. Program funds may be used, as available, to support the efforts of a participant who meets the work activity requirements and who wishes to enroll in or continue enrollment in an adult general education program or other training programs. (3) EXEMPTION FROM WORK ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS.The following individuals are exempt from work activity requirements: An individual who receives benefits under the Supplemental Security Income program or the Social Security Disability Insurance program. An adult who is not defined as a work-eligible individual under federal law.

11 A single parent of a child under 3 months of age, except that the parent may be required to attend parenting classes or other activities to better prepare for the responsibilities of raising a child. An individual who is exempt from the time period pursuant to s (4) PRIORITIZATION OF WORK REQUIREMENTS.Regional workforce boards shall require participation in work activities to the maximum extent possible, subject to federal and state funding. If funds are projected to be insufficient to allow full-time work activities by all program participants who are required to participate in work activities, regional workforce boards shall screen participants and assign priority based on the following: In accordance with federal requirements, at least one adult in each two-parent family shall be assigned priority for full-time work activities. Among single-parent families, a family that has older preschool children or school-age children shall be assigned priority for work activities. A participant who has access to child care services may be assigned priority for work activities. Priority may be assigned based on the amount of time remaining until the participant reaches the applicable time limit for program participation or may be based on requirements of a case plan. Regional workforce boards may limit a participant's weekly work requirement to the minimum required to meet federal work activity requirements. Regional workf orce boards may develop screening and prioritization procedures based on the allocation of resources, the availability of community resources, the provision of supportive services, or the work activity needs of the service area. (5) USE OF CONTRACTS.Regional workforce boards shall provide work activities, training, and other services, as appropriate, through contracts. In contracting for work activities, training, or services, the following applies: A contract must be performance-based. Payrnent shall be tied to performance outcomes that include factors such as, but not limited to, diversion from cash assistance, job entry, job entry at a target wage, job retention, and connection to transition services rather than tied to completion of training or education or any other phase of the program participation process. A contract may include performance-based incentive payments that may vary according to the extent to which the participant is more difficult to place. Contract payments rnay be weighted proportionally to reflect the extent to which the participant has limitations associated with the long-term receipt of welfare and difficulty in sustaining employment. The factors may include the extent of prior receipt of welfare, lack of employment experience, lack of education, lack of job skills, and other factors determined appropriate by the regional workforce board. Notwithstanding the exemption from the competitive sealed bid requirements provided in s (3)(f) for certain contractual services, each contract awarded under this chapter must be awarded on the basis of a competitive sealed bid, except for a contract with a govemmental entity as determined by the regional workforce board. Regional workforce boards may contract with commercial, charitable, or religious

12 organizations. A contract must comply with federal requirements with respect to nondiscrimination and other requirements that safeguard the rights of participants. Services may be provided under contract, certificate, voucher, or other form of disbursement. The administrative costs associated with a contract for services provided under this section may not exceed the applicable administrative cost ceiling established in federal law. An agency or entity that is awarded a contract under this section may not charge more than 7 percent of the value of the contract for administration, unless an exception is approved by the regional workforce board. A list of any exceptions approved must be submitted to the board of directors of Workforce Florida, Inc., for review, and the board may rescind approval of the exception. Regional workforce boards may enter into contracts to provide short-terrn work experience for the chronically unemployed as provided in this section. A tax-exempt organization under s. 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which receives funds under this chapter must disclose receipt of federal funds on any advertising, promotional, or other material in accordance with federal requirements. PROTECTIONS FOR PARTICIPANTS.Each participant is subject to the same health, safety, and nondiscrimination standards established under federal, state, or local laws that otherwise apply to other individuals engaged In similar activities who are not participants in the welfare transition program. PROTECTION FOR CURRENT EMPLOYEES.In establishing and contracting for work experience and community service activities, other work experience activities, on-the-job training, subsidized employment, and work supplementation under the welfare transition program, an employed worker may not be displaced, either completely or partially. A participant may not be assigned to an activity or employed in a position if the employer has created the vacancy or terminated an existing employee without good cause in order to fill that position with a program participant. History.s. 24, ch ; s. 71, ch ; s. 16, ch ; s. 35, ch ; s. 42, ch ; s. 1005, ch ; s. 46, ch ; s. 1, ch ; s. 33, ch ; s. 35, ch ; s. 37, ch ; s. 22, ch ; s. 386, ch

13 POLICY TITLE: FLORIDA CROWN WORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POLICY Welfare Transition Program (WTP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) POLICY NUMBER: OPS DATE EFFECTIVE: April 23, 2003 DATE REVISED: October 6, 2010 APPLICATION Customers, Career Managers/Specialists, Supervisors, Program Managers and Service Providers who work with VVTP/TANF program participants. PURPOSE For the assurance of compliance with all Federal and State guidelines and regulations, as applicable, to workforce programs. DEFINMONS: FCWB Florida Crown Workforce Board, Inc. WIA Workforce Investment Act WTP Welfare Transition Program TANF Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program PROGRAM PURPOSE: It is the purpose of the VVTP to prepare workers for employment. 1. Referral and Ellaibilitv - The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) shall determine eligibility for WTP participants, and will refer eligible participants to One-Stop Supervisors through electronic alert. Supervisors will review and assign these alerts (called Case To Do's) on a daily basis. Services will be provided to enable eligible participants to obtain employment leading to economic self-sufficiency. Although DCF customers residing outside of our four-county region have the option to choose a FCWB One-Stop office within our region, FCWB can only provide universal services (resource room) to these customers. All customers residing within our region will receive a full range of services, including supportive services. Timeliness of customer contact after receiving incoming 'Alert' from the DCF is no later than

14 five (5) working days. Orientation shall be provided to all eligible VVTP participants either in a group setting or individually, as circumstances require. The orientation will stress at least four major points: (1) the benefits and advantages of working, (2) personal responsibility, (3) the temporary nature of cash assistance, and, (4) available One-Stop services. The information must include the rules WTP rrarticipants!trust adhere to in orcter to be eligible to continue receiving cash benefits and in order not to be sanctioned or to have their case closed. The Service Provider shall also describe services available to participants from other Providers and One-Stop Partners. Orientation shall be offered at all One-Stop locations. Orientation shall be provided to customers who obtain employment as well as those referred for more intensive services. Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP1 An IRP shall be made available to all Welfare Transition participants. An IRP is required for everyone receiving Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA). IRPs will be initiated, completed and reviewed within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the new case, reopen or transfer "to do" and preferably within fourteen (14) days. Steps to Self Sufficiency will be updated at a minimum of once every thirty (30) days and preferably at the time an update becomes necessary. The IRP will be reprinted for Customer signature every ninety (90) days. A Case Note is to be entered by the Career Manager after review of the IRP with the participant and additional Case Notes entered when any appropriate updates are made to the IRP. The Service Provider shall provide assessment, screening and a review of job readiness criteria to determine whether a VVTP participant should be referred for individualized job development and career management or other intensive services. The Service Provider shall ensure that initial assessments are conducted on all individuals to be referred for intensive services. Information collected during the initial assessment shall be recorded in the electronic and/or hard copy files. Initial assessments must assess all required elements outlined in federal law which are the participant's skills, employability and work experience and may include TABE testing, Applicant Self-Assessment and Interest Survey for the development of an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP). E-Choices may be used, if necessary, but is not required. Assessment is to be carried out with a specific purpose the development of customized (IRP's), or in the case of deferred participants, Alternative Plans. The basic elements required in an IRP are: identifying the activities the participant is required to complete, identifying the number of hours a participant is required to complete in each activity, identifying the anticipated end dates or completion dates of activities, identifying services provided to participants, education and employment short and long term goals, barriers and steps to selfsufficiency which will be updated monthly. A participant in a work activity may also be encouraged to enroll in and attend a course of instruction required to increase literacy skills to a level necessary for obtaining or retaining employment, provided that the combination of activities does not exceed 40 hours per week. 2 FLORIDA CROWN WORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POLICY TITLE: WTP1TANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effective: April 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010

15 d. State Reporting System IRP will be used as well as local tools. 4. Countable Activities Federal law requires that the State meet a specified participation rate each fiscal year in order to receive federal funding. In order to meet the federal work participation rate, each individual must be engaged in a countable work activity for at least the minimum number of hours required per week. Countable work hours and participation for Welfare Transition Program customers may be waived during a declared emergency. The Service Provider shall be responsible for the provision of the following VVTP approved work activities, as applicable, in accordance with State, Federal and Local rules and regulations: Work Registration Orientation and Assessment Case management and Tracking Individual Responsibility Plans/Altemative Plans Job Search Assistance Job Readiness Assistance/Employment Preparation (Job Club) 9. Life Skills Enrichment Workshops Community Service Work Experience (CWEP) Vocational Education or Training Unsubsidized or Subsidized Employment GED Preparation or Literacy Education Work Supplementation On-the-Job Training (OJT) Work Experience Combined with Education Customized Training /Job Skills Training P. Job Development, Job Placement and Follow Up Coordination with Domestic Violence Agencies on Safety Plans Relocation Assistance Post-Employment Services Education services related to employment for participants 19 years of age or younger (restricted to those who do not have a high school diploma or GED), and the activity shall be coordinated with School-to-Work activities. Attendance at a high school or GED program for participants 19 years of age or younger; and Providing child care services for another Welfare Transition participant who is participating in Community Service Work Experience. In the event a VVTP participant is work ready but could simultaneously benefit from job-related seminars, substance abuse counseling, domestic violence counseling or mental health counseling and/or education, these services may be provided in conjunction with work or assignment to a work activity. The Service Provider shall document any such determinations and shah make appropriate referrals for these additional services. WTP participants who are work ready shall be placed in Job Search and Employment Preparation as a countable activity is limited to four consecutive weeks in a rolling 12 months or 120 hours in a rolling 12 months if the parent is a single parent with a 3 FLORIDA CROWN VVORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POLICY TITLE: 1NTP/TANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effective: April 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010

16 child under the age of 6 and 180 hours in a rolling 12 months for all other families. Job Search and/or Job Readiness, as a countable activity is limited to no more than four (4) consecutive weeks. VVTP Participants who are not "job ready" shall not be referred to employers, but rather, shall be assisted in overcoming their identified barriers to employment and will be placed in other countable activities, including training. Exemptions from Work Activity Requirements Individuals are required to participate in a Welfare Transition work activity as a condition of continued eligibility for Temporary Cash Assistance unless they meet an exemption. Provider is to alert DCF when a WAGES exemption is granted upon receipt of required documentation. Each individual must participate in an appropriate countable activity for no more than the maximum hours allowable under federal law. Deferred participants will be assigned appropriate activities under an Aftemative Plan. Medically deferred customers are required to provide an updated Medical Verification form signed by their physician every ninety (90) days. The Medical Verification form is the only acceptable documentation for approved medical deferment within this program. FCWB can require forty (40) hours of participation per week, at the Career Manager/Specialist's discretion, based upon the activity assigned. Transportation is not considered a "good cause" deferral for lack of participation in work activity requirements. Work activity requirements for Welfare Transition Program customers may be waived during a declared emergency. Supportive Services - The Service Provider will coordinate and manage the provision of support services welfare transition customers and other customers where a funding source allows. Support Services shall include, but are not limited to childcare, transportation, clothing and car repair (tire limit $ maximum). Supportive Services will be provided in accordance with the FCWB Supportive Services Policy #OPS Special WT Programs -The Service Provider is required to develop internal procedures in accordance with the FCVVB, State and VVTP requirements in order to implement the following mandated programs/policies: Up-Front Diversion Program - For VVTP participants not needing on-going temporary cash assistance, but, to meet an immediate need such as unexpected shelter or utility payments, car repairs to continue employment or need for other services to alleviate the emergency and allow the person to retain employment with a benefit paying company. In the event that a WTP participant is placed in unsubsicllzed employment by the Service Provider throuah up-front services, the Service Provider shall continue to work with the participant through post-placement follow-up contacts and retention services. 4 FLORIDA CROWN WORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POUCY TITLE: WTIVTANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effecdve: April 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010

17 Relocation Program: Total reimbursement will not exceed $3,000; Be a recipient of Temporary Cash Assistance who meets relocation eligibility criteria; Not likely achieve economic self-sufficiency in the current community or residence; Hi4-***4#10,2::#07!:-:; 00061*(f '.,-t**.atejq4hkcwc SUPPOrt : INCW111 Wage rate must be comparable to the Lower Living Standard as defined by the Federal Guidelines Is a victim of domestic violence who will experience reduced incidents of further violence due to relocation; and/or Can obtain education or training directly related to the individual's employment or career advancement; Customer must relocate within twenty-one (21) days of payment except when domestic violence is claimed. In cases where domestic violence has been claimed, relocation is to be immediate; Relocation Assistance is not limited but subsequent relocation applications must be evaluated. Transitional Childcare: Transitional Childcare is a support service available to Welfare Transition participants who leave the WT program with employment, to applicants of TCA who are diverted from on-going cash assistance through Up-Front Diversion, and to Relocation Assistance recipients. Former recipients of TCA, Relocation Assistance recipients and diverted applicants of TCA must meet general eligibility criteria to receive TCC: Individuals must be employed; A child under the age of 19, included in the grant calculation, must remain in the home. This includes children who would be included in the grant except the child receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI); and The family's income must remain below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level at all times. The family has a need for TCC. it It, cliimpativicea taataaiefón Ghfldcare Raterrala. Um* To Relocation Assistance and TCC: Florida Statute states families receiving Relocation Assistance may obtain TCC. Obtaining employment is a critical component of the Relocation Assistance process. Once the individual arrives in the receiving community and has requested services from the receiving One-Stop Career Center, (s)he may receive 30 days of job search childcare if (s)he is not employed. The individual who receives Relocation Assistance and is not employed may receive TCC only if employment is obtained within 90 days after receipt of the Relocation Assistance. 5 FLORIDA CROWN VVORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POUCY TITLE: WTP/TANF POUCY NUMBER: 0P Date Effecdve: Aprli 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010

18 All requests for Upfront Diversion, Severance and Relocation are forwarded to the Executive Director for adjudication. Transitional Education and Trainina In order to assist former recipients of temporary cash assistance who are working or actively seeking employment in continuing their training and upgrading their skills, education, or training, support services may be provided for up to two (2) years after the family is no longer receiving temporary cash assistance. This does not constitute an entitlement to transitional education and training. If funds are not sufficient to provide services under this section, the FCWB may limit or stop transitional education and training benefits. While Transitional Education and Training must be job-related, it does not have to be related to the current employment. It may include training to improve job skills in an existing area of employment or may include training to prepare for employment in another occupation. Transitional Transportation - Transitional Transportation can be used to assist former recipients of Temporary Cash Assistance in maintaining and sustaining employment. If funds permit, transportation may be provided for up to two (2) years after the participant is no longer in the program. This does not constitute an entitlement to transitional transportation. Transitional transportation assistance must be work or education related. Transitional Child Care - Transitional child care is available for up to two (2) years, subject to funding, for former welfare recipients after a participant has left the program due to employment, or for individuals redirected through up-front diversion, and whose income does not exceed 200% of the poverty level at any time during that 2-year period. One-Stop Career Manager/Specialists will provide the referral to authorized child care providers. Individuals with Disabilities Proaram - The One-Stop staff shall refer VVTP participants who may have disabilities that limit their work activity compliance to Vocational Rehabilitation. This service begins at Orientation with information provided by a representative from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), which is located at the One-Stop centers. Appointments can be immediately scheduled for a confidential interview to pre-screen the participant's potential need for specialized services that will assist them with identifying their capacity for obtaining economic self-sufficiency. DVR may require assessments to be completed to ascertain participant limitations. VVTP participants must participate in these activities or comply with work activity requirements. The One-Stop career management staff must work closely with DVR to ensure those participants receive the appropriate services, including application to the Social Security Administration for benefits. Request for Sanctions The Service Provider will counsel welfare transition customers in accordance with State guidelines, prior to making any recommendations to the DCF to apply sanctioning. a. Non-compliance without good cause must be reported to the DCF through the One- Stop System Tracking (OSST) System in a timely manner. 6 FLORIDA CROWN VVORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POUCY TITLE: VVTIMANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effecdve: April 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 8, 2010

19 The DCF will take action to impose the penalty based on the penalty level entered under the AJtemative Plan section of OSST. Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction WFI Form 2290 will then be generated and must be mailed to the participant to let them know what they failed to do and when they failed to do it. This form must be mailed within (2) working days after the failure. The participant must be given ten (10) calendar days after the dated mailed on the Form 2290 to respond, with oral contact to be attempted, annotated in record, during the conciliation period. If there is no response to the 2290 within ten (10) calendar days a sanction must be requested. If the participant responds to the 2290 within ten (10) calendar days the Service Provider must counsel the individual regarding the consequences of noncompliance. A discussion regarding barriers to participation and needed services to remove these barriers should also take place. The counseling session can take place over the phone; however It must be documented in the case notes in the OSST System. A determination of good cause must be made at this time. An entry must be made- in the case notes, which clearly states whether the Service Provider accepted their reason as good cause or not. Reportinq Suspected TANF Fraud: Federal regulations and Florida Statutes describe the process for reporting complaints and/or reports of criminal fraud and abuse. Pursuant to Section /414.41, Florida Statutes, fraud is described as, "Any person who knowingly fails by false statement, misrepresentation, impersonation, or other fraudulent means, to disclose a material fact used in making a determination as to such person's qualifications or receive aid or benefits under any sate or federally funded assistance program, or fails to disclose a change in circumstances in order to obtain or continue to receive under such program aid or benefits to which he is not entitled..., or who knowingly aids and abets another person in the commission of any such act...". If it is suspected or becomes apparent that fraud has been committed, DCF shall be immediately notified as well as the Department of Law Enforcement at (850) , when applicable. All Family Participation Rate: For the family to be included in the numerator of the all-family participation rate, At least one work-eligible parent must complete at least 130 hours in a combination of countable work activities. At least 87 hours in the month must be in a core or combination of core activities; UNLESS 7 FLORIDA CROWN VVORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POUCY TITLE: INTIVTANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effective: Aprli 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010

20 The family is a single parent family with a child under the age of six. The family will be included in the numerator of the all-family participation rate if the work-eligible parent completes at least 87 hours in a core or combination of core activities during the month. The family is a single parent family with a teen parent head of household that does not have a high school diploma or a GED. The single parent will be included in the numerator if (s)he participates satisfactorily in a secondary program or 87 hours in education directly related to employment during the month. The family is a two-parent family with two teen heads of households that do not have a high school diploma or equivalency. The parents will be included in the numerator if the parents attend 87 hours per month in either education directly related to employment or in a secondary educational program. A new Section 12, Two-Parent Family Participation Rate, is added to read: 12. Two-Parent Family Participation Rate: If the family has two work-eligible parents, the family will be included in the denominator of the two-parent participation rate in addition to the all-family participation rate. This does not include a two-parent family where one of the parents has a documented limitation to participation that will last greater than thirty (30) days and the documentation is indicated in the Department of Children and Families data entry system or the One-Stop Service Tracking (OSST) system The indicators in OSST are: Medical Deferral Greater than 90 days; and Alcohol, Drug, Mental Health Deferral Greater than 90 days. The family will be included in the numerator as "participating" if the family complies for the minimum number of required hours based on the receipt of childcare and teen parent status. Hours of participation recorded for the two parents are combined for credit towards the two-parent participation rate. If the two-parent family receives subsidized childcare, the family must comply in at least 238 hours per month combined (shared between the parents) in countable work activities. At least 217 hours must be in a core or combination of core activities. If the two-parent family does not receive subsidized childcare, the family must comply in at least 152 hours per month combined (shared between parents) in countable work activities. At least 130 hours must be in a core or combination of core activities. If the two-parent family is made up of teen head of households (no high school diploma or GED), the family is considered complying if each parent (regardless 8 FLORIDA CROWN WORKFORCE BOARD, INC. POUCY TITLE: WTP/TANF POLICY NUMBER: OPS Date Effective: April 23, 2003 Date Revised: October 6, 2010